You Can Explore London’s ‘Harry Potter: A History of Magic’ Exhibit from Your Very Own Home
If you weren’t able to pop over to London to visit the Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibit at the British Library, you’re in luck: You can now check it out anytime and from anywhere, thanks to the Google Arts & Culture app. Just like magic.
The exhibit first opened in the UK last year in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the US publication of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in 1997. It’s set to make its way over to New York from October 5, 2018, to January 27, 2019, but in the meantime, there’s an online version for everyone to enjoy.
Using the app, you can delve into 10 original Harry Potter-themed exhibits in six languages — English, Spanish, French, German, Hindi, and Brazilian Portuguese. The exhibits include interviews, articles, interactive features, and more magical touches you’ll want to experience for yourself, from 10 strange things you didn’t know about the history of magic to the gorgeously painted Ripley scroll (which describes how to make the fabled Philosopher’s Stone).
But don’t stop there! Be sure to take a peek at an early sketch and notes from none other than the series’ author, J.K. Rowling, as well as stunning images created by illustrator Jim Kay. There’s also the “How to Study Like a Wizard” section, which gives you helpful hints regarding potions, alchemy, herbology, charms, astronomy, divination, and, of course, defense against the dark arts and the care of magical creatures.
Finding this online treasure trove is almost as amazing as getting a Hogwarts acceptance letter. (Almost.)
What’s your favorite part of the online Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibition? Let us know @BritandCo!
(photos via John Phillips/Getty Images)
